April 9, 2008 - Indiana's Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) is inviting public comments on Knightstown's request to increase rates and charges for the town's water utility customers for the first time since 1991.

The OUCC is the state agency that represents consumer interests in rate change cases pending before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC). The OUCC has not yet taken a position on the town's request to raise its rates and charges 47.8 percent, but is expected to finish its review of the matter and file its report with IURC by Monday, May 19. Consumers who wish to provide written comments on the case in the meantime may submit them to the OUCC's consumer services staff via mail, e-mail or fax.

According to the OUCC, the town's requested increase would raise the monthly water bill for a residential customer using 5,000 gallons from $20.47 to $31.13. The OUCC said the town claims additional revenues would cover increases in operating and maintenance costs, including new meters, pumping equipment and office equipment.

The OUCC needs to receive all written consumer comments in this case no later than Tuesday, May 13. Comments should include the consumer's name, address, and a reference to "IURC Cause No. 43440," and can be submitted by mail (Consumer Services Staff; Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor; 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South; Indianapolis, IN 46204), fax (317-232-5923) or by e-mail (uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov).

In its bid to hike rates and charges, the town has utilized a small utility filing procedure that, to keep costs down, does not require the IURC to hold a public hearing on the request for an increase. However, if any public or municipal corporation, or 10 individuals, firms, corporations or associations, file a request for a hearing with the IURC by Monday, April 28, the IURC will hold a hearing.

Requests for a public hearing on the proposed increase should be sent to: Secretary, Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, National City Center, 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

For more information, contact the OUCC toll free at (888) 441-2494, or the IURC at (317) 232-2701.